Description
This rich and creamy stovetop hot chocolate recipe is perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. Made with milk, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and semi-sweet chocolate, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings like whipped cream or marshmallows. A pinch of sea salt and vanilla extract elevate the flavors for the perfect balance of sweet and decadent chocolate goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped semi sweet chocolate or chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Generous pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium sauce pot on the stove, combine the milk, cocoa powder, and brown sugar. Whisk together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat, whisking frequently to prevent burning. Heat until the mixture is steaming and tiny bubbles form around the edges, being careful not to let it boil.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Lower the heat to low, then add the chopped semi-sweet chocolate or chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a generous pinch of sea salt. Serve the hot chocolate immediately, optionally topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute oat milk and use vegan chocolate chips.
- To make it sweeter, use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate and consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar.
- If the hot chocolate is too rich for kids, dilute it with water to taste.
- Single serving adaptation: 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon semi-sweet chocolate chips, a drop of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250 ml)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
